A government-led aquaculture project in Pampanga harvested more than 700 kilograms of milkfish earlier this month, part of an initiative to modernize fishing techniques in one of the country’s top-producing regions.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 3 announced Monday that the “Techno Demo Project on Cage Culture of Milkfish” concluded its harvest on 6 February in Barangay San Gabriel. The project focused on training members of the San Gabriel Farmers, Fisherfolk and Vegetable Association in cage culture management.

The harvest yielded fish with an average weight of 305 grams. According to BFAR, the project aims to demonstrate how floating cages and proper management can increase production and provide more stable livelihoods for local communities compared to traditional methods.

While Central Luzon has traditionally relied on inland fishponds, BFAR is increasingly promoting the use of floating cages in local waterways, such as the Pampanga River, to boost efficiency and sustainability.

“Through continuous technical guidance and support, the association is expected to boost its capacity in developing aquaculture operations and help establish a steady supply of fish,” the agency said in a statement.

Pampanga remains a critical hub for the Philippine milkfish industry. In 2022, Central Luzon ranked as the second-largest producer of milkfish in the Philippines, with Pampanga accounting for a significant portion of that output.

Government initiatives are currently focusing on improving hatchery access and fingerling supplies to maintain the province’s competitive edge in the national market.